There is a great tradition and folklore surrounding Texas and the game of football. The sport has spurred movies, books and tales told throughout generations.

This year's college football campaign provided recognition for a remarkable young man, a homegrown Texan who provides inspiration to us all - Robert Griffin III, the quarterback for the Baylor University Bears.

Earlier this month, Robert Griffin - or RG3, as he is known to Baylor fans - was named the 2011 Heisman Trophy winner. This was Baylor's first-ever Heisman winner. In large part because of RG3's unparalleled accomplishments on the football field, Baylor finished this football season ranked Number 15 nationally with a 9-3 record, including impressive victories over nationally ranked TCU, Oklahoma and Texas.

While Baylor and Big 12 fans have witnessed Griffin's football prowess, many more American sports fans had the opportunity to watch him lead the ranked Bears in the Valero Alamo Bowl on Thursday, Dec. 29.

But it is not only his football talent that makes Robert such a remarkable young man, he is also a model student-athlete.

An honor-roll student at Baylor, he graduated with a degree in Political Science in only three years- with a 3.67 GPA! While leading the Bears on the gridiron this season, he was also studying for his Master's Degree in Communications. And he has indicated that he would like to attend law school, as well.

Robert's career at Baylor balances academics and athletics, and should serve as a role model for other aspiring young athletes.

The discipline to succeed was instilled in him at a very early age by his parents, Robert Jr. and Jacqueline Griffin, both Army Non-Commissioned Officers, who laid the groundwork for his strong work ethic and sense of duty. A graduate of Copperas Cove High School just outside Fort Hood, Robert was a top student and a three-sport star athlete. In fact, he still holds the Texas High School records for the 110-meter and 300-meter hurdles.

During his Baylor football career, Robert set 52 school records in passing, rushing and total offense.

He has thrown for an incredible 10,070 yards and 77 touchdowns, while rushing for 2,220 yards and 32 touchdowns.

During his extraordinary 2011 Heisman season, Robert passed for almost 4,000 yards and 36 touchdowns, while rushing for 655 yards and seven touchdowns. It's no surprise that he also earned the 2011 Davey O'Brien Award, presented annually to the best NCAA quarterback.

On Saturday, December 10, 2011, Robert Griffin III was overwhelmingly recognized as the best college football player of the year. His Heisman acceptance speech in New York was as gracious as it was eloquent.

Congratulations to Robert Griffin III for an incredible season that enters the history books; to his family, who provided the foundation for his abilities and accomplishments; to his teammates; and to the entire Baylor Nation.